H.R. 4808: Parity in Diplomatic Security Investigations Act

This bill, known as the Parity in Diplomatic Security Investigations Act, aims to change how the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security special agents obtain approval for intercepting communications, such as wire, oral, or electronic messages, in the course of their official duties. Currently, special agents must seek pre-approval from the Secretary of State for each instance of intercepting communications, which can slow down their ability to gather critical information in a timely manner.

Key Provisions

• Delegation of Authority: The bill proposes that the Secretary of State delegate pre-approval authority to either the Assistant Secretary of State for Diplomatic Security or the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Diplomatic Security. This would allow these officials to grant permission for special agents to intercept communications more swiftly.
• Sense of Congress: The bill expresses that Congress believes Diplomatic Security special agents should conduct recordings like other federal law enforcement agencies do. This is intended to enhance accountability and public trust in law enforcement activities. It also emphasizes that the current approval process creates unnecessary delays in their investigations.
• Updating Regulations: The Secretary of State is required to update the Foreign Affairs Manual to incorporate the new authority delegation within 90 days of the law's enactment.

Context

The adjustments made by this bill are seen as necessary to ensure that Diplomatic Security special agents can operate effectively and efficiently in their roles, which include protecting U.S. diplomats and embassies and investigating related security incidents.

Impact on Law Enforcement

This legislative change aims to align the practices of Diplomatic Security with those of other federal law enforcement agencies, which already have mechanisms in place to conduct recordings and intercept communications without being subject to the same level of bureaucratic delays.

Relevant Companies

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